How to Participate in the Mammal Marking citizen science project:

1. Look for mammals or signs of mammals around Garner. Signs of mammals can be tracks (footprints), scat (poop), or a structure like a beaver dam. Try keeping an eye out when you go for a walk or hike! Tracks are much easier to to find when the ground is moist, like after a rain. If you see a wild animal, make sure to observe from distance and do not approach it.

2. Take a digital picture of the mammal or sign of the mammal. Make sure it's clear enough to see identifying features. You can take multiple pictures of the same species to be thorough, but they should be one post. We’ve provided resources if you'd like to try identifying what you find.

3. All observations will be logged onto the platform iNaturalist. Download the app on any smart phone to log your own observations as you go. All you have to do is upload the pictures. You don’t have to identify the species if you don’t know it; the experts on iNaturalist will help you! If you don’t have access to the iNaturalist app, send all observation photos taken (along with when and where you took the photos) to wdpeducation@garnernc.gov when you’re done so the “mammal experts” at White Deer Park can identify and log them for you!

This event is entirely virtual, so you don’t need to speak to anyone or fill out a participation form. However, we’d love to see or hear about anything interesting you find so don’t feel shy about tagging or messaging us on social media!

Follow the project: iNaturalist Project Page

Learn more about scat: NC Wildlife "Scat Matters"

Identify mammal tracks: Nature Watch's Common North American Mammal Tracks Poster